Even if you already have a dental care routine that includes brushing twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash, there is always room for improvement. Doing so will help you prevent decay and protect your smile. Follow these simple tips to boost your oral care. 

How to Boost Your Dental Care Routine

1. Wait Before You Brush

If you regularly eat acidic foods and beverages, you should be aware of how these low-pH substances can affect your oral hygiene. When you brush your teeth immediately after enjoying a glass of juice, soda, or wine, or eating fresh citrus fruit or tomatoes and other similar foods, you may be inadvertently removing some of your tooth enamel. This is due to the acid in the food softening your teeth for a short period of time after eating. You can avoid this problem by waiting 30 to 60 minutes to brush your teeth after you’ve consumed something acidic.

2. Wash Your Toothbrush Holder

Because of its location in your bathroom, your toothbrush holder can collect many of the germs and bacteria that live in the room. If you don’t clean it regularly, these germs can easily transfer to your toothbrush and into your mouth. In fact, a study by the National Sanitation Foundation discovered that, aside from your dish sponge and kitchen sink, your toothbrush holder is the dirtiest item in your home. Wash it with hot, soapy water and a disinfecting wipe or run it through your dishwasher once or twice per week.

3. Don’t Brush too Often

Twice a day is the perfect number of times to brush your teeth. If you do it more often than this, you can start to wear away at your tooth enamel and damage your gums. Rather than brushing after every meal, rinse your mouth with plain water. Swish it around and force it between your teeth to get rid of any leftover food particles.

4. Think About How You Brush

The back of your mouth is harder to clean than the front, making your molars more susceptible to cavities and gum disease. Make sure you’re spending plenty of time cleaning these teeth by brushing them first every time. Turn this pattern of brushing into a routine, and you’ll be less likely to miss any of the harder-to-reach spots.

Get professional help with your dental care by visiting the professionals at Four Corners Dental Group in Wasilla and Anchorage, AK. In addition to helping you maintain optimal oral hygiene, these dentists and their staff provide a variety of dental solutions and services. They also strive to teach every patient the importance of preventative dentistry. Make your first appointment today by calling (907) 258-3384, or learn more online. Call (907) 376-2790 for the Wasilla office.